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Sealants
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back
teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occur on the chewing
surfaces of these back teeth, which are bacteria debris. Sealants flow into and coat these pits and
grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.
Why is Sealing a Tooth Better than Filling a Cavity?
Sealants help maintain sound teeth. Decay destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a tooth
is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth structure is lost. Amalgam fillings last an
average of six to eight years before they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can
save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.
How are Sealants Applied?
Applying sealants is quite simple and may be done by a dentist or a dental assistant. First the
teeth are cleaned. Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild conditioner similar in
strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface slightly so that the sealant
will bond to it properly. After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth. It
flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds. After sealing, bacteria cannot
reach the pits and grooves, and therefore cannot cause decay. Applying sealants usually requires
no drilling or removal of the tooth surface. Tooth structure is left intact, healthy teeth are
protected from decay forming bacteria.
How Long Will Dental Sealants Last?
A sealant application can last for as long as five years and often longer. Sealants should be
checked regularly and reapplied when they appear to have worn off. Because teeth are most
susceptible to decay when they are young, preventing decay during the first 5 to 14 years after a
tooth erupts is critical.
How do Sealants Fit into a Preventive Dentistry Program?
For maximum benefit, sealants should be used as part of a child’s total preventive dental care. A
dentist should examine the child’s teeth and gums regularly to check bite, tooth eruption and the
condition of both hard and soft tissues. A complete preventive dentistry program also includes
brushing and flossing, use of fluorides, good nutrition and regular dental checkups.
Do Sealants Replace Fluoride?
No! Fluorides such as those used in fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouth
rinse help prevent decay on the smooth surfaces of teeth. However, fluorides have less effect on
the rough, pitted chewing surfaces of the back teeth where food particles and decay producing
bacteria are trapped. Sealants, however, are only effective on the uneven chewing surfaces.
Have Sealants Been Thoroughly Tested?
Yes! Thousands of children across the United States and in other countries have had their teeth
sealed in controlled clinical studies. These studies have shown sealants to effective, easy to
apply, inexpensive and non-toxic. That’s why sealants have been recommended by the
American Dental Association, the National Institute of Dental Research and the American Public
Health Association.